Off-the-shelf app or Custom solution

Off-the-shelf app or custom software?

The answer is not always custom and not always off-the-shelf. It depends on how specific your process is and how fast you need something that works.

An off-the-shelf app starts fast and covers common needs. Custom software fits your process exactly but needs more time and attention up front.

A third path we see often: start from an existing platform and build only what is missing. You are not from zero, but you are not forcing your process into someone else’s app either.

CriterionOff-the-shelf appCustom solution

Time until you startUsually fast: configure and go.Longer, because it must be designed and built.

Fit to your processYou adapt partly to how it works.It adapts to you.

Flexibility for changesLimited to what the app allows.High, but each change needs development.

Upfront effortLow.Higher: describe the process, approve steps.

Paying for what you do not useCan happen with fixed packages.Low: you build only what you need.

Links to other appsDepends on existing integrations.You can build exactly the integration you need.

Choose off-the-shelf if

your process is fairly standard in your field
you want to start quickly
you do not need unusual fields or flows

Choose custom (or combine) if

you have a specific flow no app covers
you repeat the same manual work every day and want it automated
you need an integration between tools you already use

See guides and quizzes →

Questions

What people ask us

Can we combine both?

Yes. We start from existing RIVIL modules and build only what is missing, in the same menu, with the same users and roles.

How do we know if it is worth it?

Tell us what you want to automate and we will say honestly if you need something custom.

Can we see examples?

On custom solutions you will find examples of modules, integrations, and flows.

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Not sure what fits you?

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